TRIBUTES have been paid to a gentle and humble musician who put Redditch firmly on the musical map.

Dave Morris, from Alvechurch, was a musician, songwriter, producer and live engineer, who worked with some of the most well known and respected rock stars of the day.

He also had a passion for supporting unsigned and local talent through his own practice and rehearsal studio - WorkShop Studios.

Mr Morris started his career in music in the mid 70s in bands such as Speed Limit and later Jealous Girl, which enjoyed some comercial success and supported the Pointer Sisters and 10cc.

It was during this time he started building a mobile studio.

After Jealous Girl split Mr Morris moved the mobile studio into Millsborough House in Redditch town centre and WorkShop Studios was born in 1984.

He had considerable success recording many local and up and coming bands including the Wonder Stuff, Neds Atomic Dustbin and Pop Will Eat Itself.

Mr Morris also recorded a charity single there with rock legends Brian May, Rick Wakeman and Steve Howe.

News of his death sent shockwaves through not just the musical community but the community as a whole with many people leaving glowing tributes to him.

Former band member and friend Tony Baylis said: "Dave's contribution to midland music over the years was immense and many many musicians will remember his calm professional approach. He will be missed by many.

Les Johnson, former manager of The Wonderstuff, said: "Dave was a musician, songwriter, producer and live engineer, and he was great at all those endeavours. He worked with some notable people and achieved great things from a small town and put Redditch on the musical map."

Redditch born Luke Johnson, former Beat Union and Lost Prophets drummer, said: "Dave owned the first studio I ever recorded in, WorkShop Studios in Redditch. I also did my high school work experience/internship at the studio. Dave was an inspiration to me, and helped me get started on my career path.

"He worked with some of the greats Manic Street Preachers, Queen, The Wonder Stuff, Fun Bug. He will be sincerely missed."

Chris Lomass, co-owner of Workshop Studios, said: "Dave was the real deal, a true music man, he was knowledgeable in music and recording theory for sure, he was also a hell of a good guitar player and songwriter and a great live engineer.

"But most important of all he was a music fan, whatever the genre, it didn't matter to Dave - if it was good he had time for it."

The 63-year-old died on Sunday, March 20 of a suspected heart attack.

He leaves behind wife Ann and son Dan.